R-99-04-22-10C1 - 4/22/1999K:\ WPOOCS \RESOLITTI \R90422C1.WPD /acg
RESOLUTION NO. R- 99- 04- 22 -10C1
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to adopt Critical Policies
for the Round Rock Police Department dealing with Use of Force and
with Vehicular Pursuit, and
WHEREAS, the adoption of said Critical Policies would
conflict with Sections 6.08 and 7.02 of the existing Police
Department Policy and Procedure Manual, as adopted by Resolution
No. 1255R, and
WHEREAS, due to the conflict, it is necessary to repeal
Sections 6.08 and 7.02 of the existing Police Department Policy and
Procedure Manual, and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to grant the Chief of Police
the authority to adopt a new Police Department Policy and Procedure
Manual, and to make any necessary amendments to said manual at the
Chief's discretion, Now Therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROUND ROCK,
TEXAS,
That the attached Critical Policies dealing with Use of Force
and with Vehicular Pursuit are hereby adopted.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED,
That Sections 6.08 and 7.02 of the existing Police Department
Policy and Procedure Manual as adopted by Resolution No. 1255R, are
hereby repealed.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED,
That the Chief of Police is hereby granted the authority to
adopt and amend a new Round Rock Police Department Policy and
Procedure Manual.
The City Council hereby finds and declares that written notice
of the date, hour, place and subject of the meeting at which this
Resolution was adopted was posted and that such meeting was open to
the public as required by law at all times during which this
Resolution and the subject matter hereof were discussed, considered
and formally acted upon, all as required by the Open Meetings Act,
Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, as amended, and the Act.
RESOLVED this 22nd day of April, 1 ,999.
ATTEST:
E LAND, City Secretary
2
CHARLES CU PEP•ER, Mayor
City of Round Rock, Texas
USE OF FORCE
Round Rock Police Department
Protect and to Serve
It is the policy of the Round Rock Police Department to accomplish the police mission as efficiently and
unobtrusively as possible. The department has the highest regard for the dignity and liberty of all persons, and places
minimal reliance upon the use of force and authority.
In vesting members with the lawful authority to use force for the public welfare, a careful balancing of all human
interest is required. Department members shall use only that force that appears reasonably necessary to bring an
incident under control, while protecting the lives of citizens or other department members. Any force used will be
only to that degree minimally necessary to accomplish a lawful police task.
DEFINITIONS
Authorized Weapons Weapons meeting department specifications for which members receive proficiency and
safety training.
Deadly Force Any force likely to cause death or serious bodily injury.
Firearm Any department authorized firearm. Any other firearm used in a reportable force incident.
Force Continuum Broad categories of force in identifiable, escalating stages of intensity. They are
commonly identified as presence, dialogue, empty- hand/impact weapons, chemical,
temporary incapacitation, and deadly force.
Non - Deadly Force Any force other than that considered to be deadly force.
Probable Cause The facts and circumstances known to the department member that would warrant a
prudent person to believe a crime has been committed and that the person accused did
commit the crime.
Pursuit Termination Tire deflating spikes utilized to deflate a suspect vehicle's tires.
Strips
Ramming An intentional violent collision that may cause major damage to both vehicles and may
cause injury or death to occupants or bystanders.
Reasonable Belief
Reportable Force The use of any type of force that results in death, injury, or complaint of injury; any
intentional traffic collision or forcible stopping; and any discharge of a firearm at a
location other than a Round Rock Police Department- approved firing range, excluding off -
duty situations such as hunting or participating in competitive shooting.
Serious Bodily Injury A bodily injury that creates a substantial risk of death; causes serious, permanent
disfigurement; or results in a long -term loss or impairment of the functioning of any
bodily member or organ.
C: \ TEXT \ SCANNED \6ORCE1.WPD /c1b
The facts or circumstances the department member knows, or should know, are such as to
cause an ordinary and prudent person to act or think in a similar way under similar
circumstances.
AUTHORIZATION TO CARRY FIREARMS AND NON - DEADLY WEAPONS
Department members authorized to carry firearms and non - deadly weapons will be instructed in the policies
described herein and provided with necessary training. New department members will be provided a copy of this
policy and thoroughly trained and tested for proficiency before being authorized to carry a firearm or non- deadly
weapon.
Department members authorized to carry firearms shall be armed while on duty, whether in uniform or civilian attire.
The carrying of weapons and ammunition not having department authorization are expressly prohibited at all times.
The carrying of firearms while off duty shall be at the discretion of authorized department members. Uunarmed off -
duty members are not subject to disciplinary measures for failure to take action; however, if the need for police
services arises in their presence; the off-duty department member shall request an on -duty police officer to respond.
The following personnel are prohibited from carrying firearms while off duty:
1. Department members under suspension and those failing to qualify.
Off -duty department members who anticipate consuming alcoholic beverages are advised not to carry a firearm. Any
department member found to be intoxicated while carrying a weapon shall be subject to disciplinary action. If the
need for police services arises while an off-duty department member is consuming alcoholic beverages, the
department member shall request an on -duty police officer to respond.
Off -duty department members using deadly force while exercising their police powers shall be considered on -duty
and will be subject to all provisions of this policy.
PARAMETERS FOR USE OF NON - DEADLY FORCE
When use of force is needed, department members should assess the circumstances to determine, based on training
and experience, the options in the force continuum that will best de- escalate the situation and bring it under control
in a safe and prudent manner.
Department members are permitted to use department- authorized non - deadly force techniques (including physical
force) and equipment to:
1. Protect themselves or another from physical harm;
2. Restrain or subdue a resistant suspect; and
3. Bring an unlawful situation safely and effectively under control.
The impact weapon, K -9, aerosol defensive spray, stun gun, Lateral Vascular Neck Restraint (L.V.N.R.), low
lethality devices, as well as the pyrotechnic and flow lethality devices used by the SWAT unit and other specialized
units, are the only authorized non - deadly weapons and tactics to be used by department members. The use of a
flashlight as a non - deadly weapon is discouraged. If it becomes necessary to usea flashlight for defensive purposes, it
is to be used in the same manner as impact weapon. Department members are to avoid striking suspects on the head,
neck, sternum, spine, groin, or kidneys unless confronted with a deadly force situation.
2.
PARAMETERS FOR USE OF DEADLY FORCE
Department members are not authorized to draw or display their firearms, except for training at the firearm range,
unless the circumstances create reasonable belief that it may be necessary to use the firearm in conformance with this
policy. Before using a firearm, department members shall, whenever feasible, identify themselves and state their
intention to shoot. Department members may fire their weapons only to stop and incapacitate an assailant from
completing a potentially deadly act. Department members should shoot at the "center body mass" of an assailant for
maximum stopping effectiveness and minimal danger to innocent bystanders.
The use of a vehicle to stop or apprehend a suspect, such as ramming, may be considered a use of deadly force.
Forcible stopping may produce unpredictable movements of the vehicles involved, thus creating an immediate
danger. Department members initiating these tactics may be held accountable for unintentional damage or injury to
bystanders resulting from their actions.
Department members are authorized to use deadly force to:
1 . Protect themselves or others from what is reasonably believed to be an IMMEDIATE THREAT OF
DEATH OR SERIOUS BODILY HARM;
2. Prevent the escape of a fleeing felon whom the department member has probable cause to believe will
pose A SIGNIFICANT THREAT TO HUMAN LIFE if escape should occur, and that the justification
for the action must be CLEAR and IMMEDIATE;
3. Justifiably kill an animal
a. In self - defense,
b. To prevent substantial harm to the department member or another, or
c. When an animal is so badly injured and humanity requires its relief from further suffering; and
4. Qualify or practice with their firearm at an authorized Round Rock Police Department firearms range.
Note: A seriously wounded or injured animal may be destroyed only after all attempts have been made to request
assistance from the agency (Humane Society, animal control, game warden, etc.) responsible for the disposal of
animals. The destruction of vicious animals shall conform with the same rules set forth for self - defense and the
defense and safety of others.
Department members are not authorized to discharge their firearm:
1. As warning shots;
2. If it appears likely that an innocent person may be injured;
3. From a moving vehicle, except when there exists no other reasonable alternative; or
4. At a moving vehicle, unless necessary to do so to protect against an imminent threat to the life of the
department member or others. As such, department members:
a. Shall attempt to move out of the path of an oncoming vehicle, possible, rather than discharge their
firearm.
3.
b. Shall not intentionally place themselves in the path of an oncoming vehicle and attempt to disable
the vehicle by discharging their firearm; and
c. Shall not discharge their firearm at a fleeing vehicle or its driver.
Department members are to exercise reasonable care and caution in the safe handling of a firearm. A firearm may be
considered "accidentally discharged" for the following reasons only:
1. Mechanical failure;
2. Faulty anununition;
3. Unintentional discharge, not resulting from negligence.
REPORTING AND INVESTIGATIVE REQUIREMENTS
Officer's Report on Use of Force
The department investigates all use of force incidents to determine justification for the force used, as well as to
correct any identifiable training deficiencies. Members involved in use of force incidents shall notify their supervisor
immediately and complete an Officer's Report on Use of Force. The report shall be completed by each member,
officer or civilian involved in a use of force incident when:
1. A firearm is discharged at a location other than an authorized Round Rock Police Department firearms
range (excluding off -duty situations such as hunting or participating in competitive shooting matches);
2. The use of force results in death or serious bodily injury;
3. A non - deadly weapon or tactic is used on a person; or
4. Other, actions of the department member result in death or injury to any person, including intentional
traffic collisions and forcible stopping.
Notification of Patrol Supervisor
The Patrol Supervisor shall be summoned to take control of the incident scene until 1 relieved by investigative
personnel when:
1. A firearm is discharged at a location other than an authorized Round Rock Police Department firearms
range;
2. The use of force results in death or serious bodily injury; or
3. A citizen or arrestee complains that an injury has been inflicted as the result of a police activity.
Notifications by Communications
The Patrol Supervisor shall ensure that the Communications Division has made the appropriate notifications in a use
of force incident. Communications Division shall immediately notify:
1. a. The department member's immediate supervisor and the Criminal Investigation Division for non-
injury or property damage incidents (includes accidental discharge of firearm).
4.
OR
AND
b. The Criminal Investigation Division (and on -call investigator during non - business hours), medical
assistance, followed promptly by notification of the department member's immediate supervisor,
and the Evidence Technician where the actions of a department member did or could have resulted
in death or serious bodily injury (including intentional discharge of a firearm at a human being).
2. The Victim's Assistance Coordinator (V.A.C.) where the actions by a member did or could have
resulted in serious bodily injury/death (including any intentional discharge of a firearm at a human
being).
The department member's immediate supervisor shall place the department member in relief of duty status as soon
as practicable after an incident involving death and serious bodily injury. The Criminal Investigation Division shall
ensure that the department member's weapon is impounded by the Evidence Technician and the Armory Officer, as
appropriate, provides a loaner weapon to the department member. The supervisor also shall notify the officer's
division commander in writing regarding the relief of duty and rearming the department member. The identity of
department members involved in deadly force incidents shall not be released to the public or media for 48 hours after
the incident.
The Criminal Investigation Division shall investigate all deaths and serious injuries resulting from the use of force
(including in- custody incidents) and intentional shooting incidents at human beings, and shall submit a written report
of the findings to the Chief of Police. The affected Division Commander or the ranking C.I.D. Investigator present
shall have command of the investigation.
VICTIM'S ASSISTANCE COORDINATOR
The V.A.C. shall respond to use of force incidents resulting in death or serious injury, or where death could have
resulted. The V.A.C. shall arrange for psychological counseling of involved department members by a department -
approved psychologist, and shall forward a recommendation concerning length of relief of duty and follow -up
counseling to the Chief of Police. The V.A.C. may also make recommendations to the appropriate division
commander of the department member's readiness to return to duty. A department member, in normal
circumstances, may be returned to duty following a fmding by a Grand Jury that the death was justifiable or
excusable.
5.
VEHICULAR PURSUIT
Round Rock Police Department
Protect and to Serve
It is the policy of the Round Rock Police Department that its officers may only initiate a pursuit of a violator in a
motor vehicle when a law violator has clearly demonstrated the intention of avoiding arrest and there is an immediate
need for apprehension of the violator. The pursuit, however, must not create unreasonable danger to the police or the
public. A pursuit should be initiated only when there exists no reasonable alternative. A vehicular pursuit is
unwarranted when the suspect presents no obvious threat to the community, or the pursuit creates a greater danger.
DEFINITION
Vehicular Pursuit - An active attempt by an officer in an authorized emergency vehicle, as defined by the Texas
Transportation Code, Section 541.201, as may hereafter be amended, to apprehend a suspect fleeing in a vehicle and
attempting to avoid apprehension through evasive tactics.
PURSUIT CRITERIA
A vehicular pursuit is justified only when the officer has reasonable grounds to believe the suspect has committed, or
is attempting to commit, a crime for which there is an immediate need for apprehension. Emergency pursuit
operations shall be conducted in strict compliance with existing statutes and procedures. When pursuing a violator,
officers shall operate their vehicles in the "Code 3" mode, using both siren and emergency lights, and shall exercise
reasonable care for persons and property. Vehicles not equipped with siren and authorized emergency lights
conforming to department standards shall not be permitted to take part in a vehicular pursuit under any circumstances.
A vehicular pursuit shall be conducted by an initial (primary) unit and a secondary unit. Other units shall stay clear
of the pursuit. EXCEPTION: If a vehicular pursuit is initiated by an unmarked unit (equipped with lights and siren),
the officer operating the unmarked 'unit shall terminate his pursuit when two marked units have joined the pursuit.
The officer operating the unmarked unit shall proceed to the end point of the pursuit when the pursuit is terminated
or the subject is apprehended.
Officers are prohibited from caravanning or paralleling units while operating in the "Code 3" mode, and officers
shall not make other attempts to join the pursuit. The primary unit may request, under extraordinary circumstances,
additional units to join the pursuit.
CONTROL OF THE PURSUIT
Primary Unit
1. Shall notify Communications immediately that a pursuit is underway, and shall provide Communications
with the following information:
a. Location speed, and direction of travel of the fleeing vehicle;
b. Description and license plate number of the vehicle, if known;
c. Number of occupants in the vehicle, and descriptions, if known; and
d. Reason(s) supporting the decision to pursue.
2. Shall attempt apprehension of the suspect(s) without unnecessary risk to other persons or property.
3. Shall broadcast the progress of the pursuit, contra pursuit tactics, and decide if the pursuit should be
continued (unless relieved by a supervisor).
Secondary Unit
4. Upon joining the pursuit, shall assume control over the broadcast regarding the progress of the pursuit .
5. Shall become the primary unit, if the primary unit cannot continue the pursuit.
C: \ TEXT \ SCANNED \PORSUIT1.WPD /c1b
Communications Area Dispatcher
6. Shall clear the affected channel for emergency traffic only and shall ensure that all channels are aware of
the channel's status and pursuit information.
Monitoring Communications Supervisor
7. Shall immediately notify the shift supervisor and the officer's supervisor of the pursuit. (Communications
shall designate a supervisor if the officer's supervisor is not available.)
8. Shall advise other dispatching entities when the pursuit is approaching adjacent areas.
9. Shall advise neighboring jurisdictions when the pursuit is approaching their jurisdiction, and shall
provide information related to the direction of the pursuit, status, and description of the vehicle.
10. Shall contact other agencies when RRPD officers request assistance, describing the circumstances and
specific assistance requested. Shall remain in contact with the other agencies unless a common radio frequency is
available to both agencies.
Field Supervisor
11. Shall monitor the pursuit, evaluate the risks, and ensure compliance with applicable procedures.
TERMINATING THE PURSUIT
Primary and Secondary Units
1. Shall consider present danger, seriousness of the crime, length of pursuit, and later identification of the
suspect when deciding whether to continue the pursuit. The most reasonable action may be to abandon the pursuit.
2. Shall terminate the pursuit when the dangers of the pursuit outweigh the need to apprehend the suspect,
or when so ordered by a supervisor.
Primary Unit
3. Shall effect an arrest when the suspect voluntarily stops, becomes involved in a traffic accident, or
otherwise ceases fleeing.
4. Shall broadcast the information necessary to assist in locating the suspect or returning to normal duty if
the pursued vehicle is lost.
5. Shall coordinate any further search for the vehicle and/or the suspect .
Secondary Unit
6. Shall assist the primary unit and make broadcasts when terminating the pursuit.
7. Shall coordinate activities should the primary unit become involved in a foot pursuit of the suspect.
Field Supervisor
8. Shall order termination of the pursuit when the necessity for apprehension of the violator is outweighed by
the level of danger created by the pursuit.
9. Shall respond to the temrination point of the pursuit and assume control of the scene.
10. Shall ensure that all applicable reports are completed and all required notifications are made to the
appropriate entities..
11. Shall advise the affected division commanders regarding whether the pursuit was conducted in
accordance with applicable procedures.
Communications
12. Shall broadcast the termination of the pursuit over all channels and restore normal communications as
the situation dictates.
Officer's Supervisor
13. Shall respond to pursuit termination point and assist the Field Supervisor at the scene.
INTER AND INTRA - JURISDICTIONAL PURSUITS
Another law enforcement agency conducting a pursuit that enters the jurisdiction of the Round Rock Police
Department is responsible for the conduct of the pursuit. Notification of a pursuit by another agency is not a
requirement to join or otherwise assist in the pursuit. If assistance is requested by another agency, RRPD officers
shall not assume the primary position unless the following conditions are met:
1. The other agency is unable to maintain the pursuit due to fuel depletion, or other disabling causes; and
2. A RRPD supervisor authorizes the assumption of the primary position by a RRPD officer.
POST - PURSUIT REQUIREMENTS
Primary Officer
1. Shall complete reports, including Officer's Reports and an administrative report regarding the pursuit.
2. Shall forward a copy of the reports to the division captain via the officer's supervisor.
Communications Supervisor
3. Shall send a copy of the audio /video recording and event printout to the last primary officer's captain.
Division Captain
4. Shall review all pursuit materials to determine if pursuit procedures were followed, and shall initiate any
corrective action deemed appropriate.
5. Shall record his comments /actions on the Vehicle Pursuit Reports and forward copies to the Training
Division Commander and the Chief of Police.
Training Division Commander
6. Shall review the Vehicle Pursuit Reports and make appropriate recommendations to the Chief of Police
concerning policy changes or modifications in the training curriculum.
DATE: April 16, 1999
SUBJECT: City Council Meeting — April 22, 1999
ITEM: 10.C.1. Consider a resolution approving Critical Policies for the Round Rock
Police Department and the revision of the Police Department Policy
Manual. Staff Resource Person: Paul Conner, Chief of Police.
VEHICULAR PURSUIT
DEFINITION
CONTROL OF THE PURSUIT
Primary Unit
Secondary Unit
C: \ TEXT \ SCANNED \ PURSUIT. WPU /c1b
Round Rock Police Department
Protect and to Serve
It is the policy of this-0epactrnenf drts=Roui d i C I C `* tB oltUXo that t£S officers may only initiate a pursuit of a
violator in a motor vehicle when a law violator has clearly demonstrated the intention of avoiding arrest and there is
asi immediate need for apprehension efthe 4iistat0#'. The pursuit, however, must not create unreasonable danger far ft5
the police or the public. A pursuit ` of r�ane SIFOUtd se snstsated on(p;wherr thex eXtsts no tea5titda#r(e
4063tafxv magma-Oka is unwarranted when the suspect presents no obvious threat to the community, or the
pursuit creates a greater danger.
Vehicular Pursuit - An active attempt by an officer in an authorized emergency vehicle, as defined by ORI Texas
Traffio vcootootoi Code $**002114:14tokehaoftw typytgdb to apprehend a suspect fleeing in a
vehicle and attempting to avoid apprehension through evasive tactics.
PURSUIT CRITERIA
A +retdcu pursuit is justified only when the officer has reasonable grounds to believe the suspect has committed, or
is attempting to commiti a crime for which there is an immediate need for apprehension. Emergency pursuit
operations will be conducted in strict compliance with existing statutes and procedures Wben °purawng s
1 Officers will o7 fti• ers ahali pursue - driving operate s[ valbjth s tbb ICode 3 its itomg using both siren and
emergency lights and ahu exercise reasonable care for persons and property. Vehicles not equipped with siren and
authorized emergency lights, asserding cna±b n g to department standards -rill shaU not be permitted to take part in
a vehicular pursuit under any circumstances.
!a;(ehlctt The pursuit will risist -afthe Sk i': firiXtdptiC initial (primary) unit and a secondary unit. Other
units will OM stay clear of the pursuit. EXCEPTION: If a vebicittac purattd i initiated by an unmarked unit
(WOO with lights and siren), that officerg001000 will quit tho s alt agion dt pursuit
when two marked units have joined the pursuit. The relieved office q
J P ktif iliaft will to on
&AN to the end point of the pursuit when the pursuit has XS terminated or the subject is apprehended.
There will be NO Codo 73 ) t *n iiiki**0*(410# caravanning or paralleling e€ units s I3il +ticsatrtig its t(ip
Kt pie simile, et iu d ss Lean sbali iOi a t nt0* attempts to join the pursuit. The primary unit may request, under
extraordinary circumstances, additional units to join the pursuit.
1. M1 fI . Notifies Communications immediately that a pursuit is underway
t" ae3f**lftotu4 with the following informatiorq
a. Location speed, and direction of travel of the fleeing vehicle;
b. Description and license plate number of the vehicle, if known;;
c. Number of occupants in the vehicle, and descriptions, where - possible li' tk t; and
d. Reason(s) supporting the decision to pursue.
2. S?Ilei apprehension of the suspect(s) without unnecessary risk to other persons or
property.
3. $11:alfihiatkaii Rreadcasts the progress of the pursuit, controls pursuit tactics, and decides if the pursuit
should be continued (unless relieved by a supervisor).
4 l tp,£1it j9fyti t re'ptirsttty, 064t0Wita?711r47 Takes Over Breadsast 0:140000§4#0:44000000
of the pursuit .
5 Slsa I l ame Deeemes the primary unit, if the primary unit cannot continue the pursuit.
Communications Area Dispatcher
6 Sltall c1e9s Cloarc the affected channel for emergency traffic only and a1XaTI ensures that all channels are
aware of the channel;'s status and pursuit information.
Monitoring Communications Supervisor
7 Shaif immediatuSy lint j Notifies the shift supervisor and the officer's supervisor immediately of the
pursuit. (Communications w41 OE designate a supervisor if the officer's supervisor is not available.)
8 $frail g4. Advises other dispatchers di0in1 ing pttllr?# when the pursuit is heeded-reward aipltt'004
adjacent areas.
9 tLa4 se Advises neighboring jurisdictions when the pursuit is headed -us N p0c1ti#g their direction
jtarzsdieT #tin, giving direction of 000Rtll, status, and description of the
vehicle.
10. Sttafi e tlntadf Contacts other agencies when RRPD officers request assistance describing the
circumstances and specific assistance requested. r na n i s in contact }utt11 tite [inter es1 se4 unless a
common radio frequency is available to both agencies.
Field Supervisor
11 Shall I#1 ' Monitors the pursuit, evaluates the risks, and ensures compliance with appfr rta
procedures.
clangor created by the purcai
-15. Advises tho affected division commanders of tho purse it's adherence to procedures.
TERMINATING THE PURSUIT
Primary and Secondary Units
..........................
1 . E1(8/1114 Considers present danger, seriousness of the crime, length of pursuit, and later
identification of the suspect when deciding whether to continue the pursuit. The most reasonable action may be to
abandon the pursuit.
2 Ogfilf,epkrififfte Discontinues the pursuit when the dangers of the pursuit outweigh the need to apprehend
the suspect, or when so ordered by a supervisor.
Primary Unit
3. 4toriai beets an arrest when the suspect voluntarily stops, OF becomes involved in a traffic accident,
€ir�sllo�tw�sc �eas;��.
4 fkdll'brYYklikasf Hreadeaets the necessary information okGC3� to assist in locating the suspect or
returning to normal duty when if the pursued vehicle is lost.
5 Sh t c6ortimafo Coordinates any further search for the vehicle - and0or the suspect fleeing-ea-feet
Secondary Unit
6 11 T1 a stat the primary unit and makes broadcasts when terminating the pursuit.
7 slttlr{fir Ceer4ieates activities should the primary unit become involved in a foot pursuit xyt the •
Field Supervisor
Sil OCtlit '
ap
itsir rs «ct[eestahed
•
t 01 fOR d anAi t pi lilt •
5 aha3lr 9pcand uthetetmlttataonpoAnt hepursu i ara� assuzn$GQztksula thesccne
ID Sriall ertstu that a1i, p lr ble reports are eon eted aidd tttt t qtr ed nratzfre
pl etitttes
i t, Shalt eM ei the affected Iitxisien rm irnanders regardeg whethers th1L pros
�t�orxlaltge w�Ct sgg7reablejpmtiecltues _
Communications
49 4nnducted to
4 ' .hali, IZfpa?lt5t 3readsasts the termin ation of the pursuit over all channels and restores normal
communications as the situation dictates.
Officer's Supervisor
44 Responds to pursuit termination point and assists Field Supervisor at the scene.
INTER AND INTRA - JURISDICTIONAL PURSUITS
moo ern outside t#ttx etifarcemcnt; agency with Gha€tuC i#ja a pursuit Iggigt#0 entering this lie jurisdiction go*
lfautd Et *s *bit i gt ratan is responsible for the conduct of the pursuit. Notification of a pursuit by another
agency is not a requirement to join or otherwise assist m gt ,lt f. If assistance is requested notl_er a,
RRPD officers will 4l not assume the primary position unless the following conditions are met:
1. The other agency is unable to maintain the pursuit due to fuel depletion, or other disabling causes; and
2. An RRPD supervisor authorizes a tilt@ i00 a 1.00 tl* pitnsar r isttiiali b t11R o£f"i .
POST - PURSUIT REQUIREMENTS
Primary Officer
1 Sitzlf 6oj tp t4 Completes reports, including Officer's Reports and an administrative report r6 g
2 SlialkOr*Ofmnearele a copy of the reports to the division captain via the officer's supervisor.
Communications Supervisor
3 RA aen Sends a copy of the patsutt au [t
officer's captain.
recording; „and event printout to the last primary
Division Captain
4 mil 0400,1 Reviews all pursuit materials to determine if pursuit procedures were followed, and alta'tl
initiates any 4400066aFy corrective actions deemed a pgt' .
5 lk6o.04 R eserds hlp comments /actions on the Vehicle Pursuit Reports and forwards copies to the
Training Division Commander and the Chief of Police.
Training Division Commander
6 Hill ru Reviews the Vehicle Pursuit Reports and makes appropriate recommendations to the Chief
of Police for * :;g in policy changes or modifications in the training curriculum.
USE OF FORCE
It is the policy of dye #itizlid t7Clt Pdtee liatuto this- depent to accomplish the police mission as efficiently
and unobtrusively as possible. The department has the highest regard for the dignity and liberty of all persons, and
places minimal reliance upon the use of force and authority.
In vesting members with the lawful authority to use force for the public welfare, a careful balancing of all human
interest is required. Department members shall use only that force that appears reasonably necessary to bring an
incident under control, while protecting the lives of citizens or other department members. Any force used will be
only to that degree minimally necessary to accomplish a lawful police task.
DEFINITIONS
Authorized Weapons
Deadly Force
Firearm
Force Continuum
Non - Deadly Force
Probable Cause
Pursuit Termination
Strips
Ramming
Reasonable Belief
Reportable Force
Serious Bodily Injury
C. \TEXT \SCANNED \FDRC6.WPD /clb
Round Rock Police Department
Protect and to Serve
Weapons meeting department specifications for which members receive proficiency and
safety training.
Any force likely to cause death or serious bodily injury.
Any department authorized firearm. Any other firearm used in a reportable force incident.
Broad categories of force in identifiable, escalating stages of intensity. They are
commonly identified as presence, dialogue;; empty- hand/#impact weapons, chemical,
temporary incapacitation, and deadly force.
Any force other than that considered to be deadly force.
The facts and circumstances known to the department member that would warrant a
prudent person to believe a crime has been committed and that the person accused did
commit the crime.
Tire deflating spikes utilized to deflate a suspect vehicle's tires.
An intentional violent collision that may cause major damage to both vehicles and may
cause injury or death to occupants or bystanders.
The facts or circumstances the depatttatantmember knows, or should know, are such as to
.:..............:
cause an ordinary and prudent person to act or think in a similar way under similar
circumstances.
The use of any type of force that results in death, injury, or complaint of injury; any
intentional traffic collision or forcible stopping; and any discharge of a firearm eutbide -tike
ei tt 0 gthof^ tha i a Rma C{;tcdeto :l3epat .0000r'tt firing range, excluding
off-duty situations such as hunting or participating in competitive shooting.
A bodily injury that creates a substantial risk of death; causes serious, permanent
disfigurement; or results in a long -term loss or impairment of the functioning of any
bodily member or organ.
AUTHORIZATION TO CARRY FIREARMS AND NON- DEADLY WEAPONS
Department members authorized to carry firearms and non - deadly weapons will be instructed in the policies
described herein and provided with necessary training. New department members will be provided a copy of this
etdee p,4 fl.G3' and thoroughly trained and tested for proficiency before being authorized to carry a firearm or non-
deadly weapon.
popiogggiip,4embers authorized to carry firearms shall be armed while on duty, whether in uniform or civilian
attire ` ite tt tit twWeapons and ammunition not having department authorization are expressly prohibited at all
times. - - - - - - --
The carrying of firearms while off duty shall be at the discretion of authorized dettettlitp members. Uunarmed off -
duty members are not subject to disciplinary measures for failure to take action; however, if the need for police
services arises in their presence; the off-duty d0:0t member shall request an on -duty police officer to respond.
The following personnel are prohibited from carrying firearms while off duty:
...................... .
1. 44100aettt:nl4fembers under suspension and those failing to qualify.
Off -duty t members who anticipate consuming alcoholic beverages are advised not to carry a firearm. Any
department member found to be intoxicated and whfe carrying a weapon shall be subject to disciplinary action. If the
need for police services arises while an off-duty 4 &it member is consuming alcoholic beverages, the
departrtt io member shall request an on -duty police officer to respond.
Off-du ": ...
Off-duty lnitl members using deadly force while exercising their police powers shall be considered on -duty
and will be subject to all provisions of this eedet mg*.
PARAMETERS FOR USE OF NON - DEADLY FORCE
When use of force is needed, department members should assess an- iaeident t etx 4 to determine, based on
training and experience, which d options in the force continuum fri4 will best de- escalate the situation and bring it
under control in a safe and prudent manner.
pet atiffietd, inMembers are permitted to use department - authorized non - deadly force techniques (including physical
force) and equipment to:
1. Protect themselves or another from physical harm
2. Restrain or subdue a resistant suspects and
3. Bring an unlawful situation safely and effectively under control.
The impact weapon, K -9, aerosol defensive spray, stun gun, Lateral Vascular Neck Restraint (L.V.N.R.), low
lethality devices, as well as the pyrotechnic and flow lethality devices used by Ilz SWAT trnsf and other specialized
units are the only authorized non - deadly weapons and tactics Icr be isod lay dep>q*. tt embers. The use of a
flashlight as a non - deadly weapon is discouraged. Should # it become] necessary to use-de4 flashlight for defensive
purposes, it is to be used in the same manner as the impact weapon. De t pent ii mmbers are to avoid striking
suspects on the head, neck, sternum, spine, groin, or kidneys unless confronted with a deadly force situation.
2.
PARAMETERS FOR USE OF DEADLY FORCE
Department members are not authorized to draw or display their firearms, except for training at the firearm range,
unless the circumstances create reasonable belief that it may be necessary to use the firearm in conformance with this
erdef pa] ?. Before using a firearm, department members shall, whenever feasible, identify themselves and state
their intention to shoot. Llepattnt eit ihMembers are -te fire their weapons only to stop and incapacitate an
assailant from completing a potentially deadly act. Pe should shoot at the "center body mass''
wow* for maximum stopping effectiveness and minimal danger to innocent bystanders.
The use of a vehicle to stop or apprehend a suspect, such as ramming, may be considered a use of deadly force.
Forcible stopping may produce unpredictable movements of the vehicles involved, thus creating an immediate
danger D panMeial flt mmbers initiating these tactics may be held accountable for unintentional damage or injury to
bystanders resulting from their actions.
Department members are authorized to use deadly force to:
1 . Protect themselves or others from what is reasonably believed to be an IMMEDIATE THREAT OF
DEATH OR SERIOUS BODILY HARM;
2. Prevent the escape of a fleeing felon whom the depmt7ne 1 member has probable cause to believe will
pose A SIGNIFICANT THREAT TO HUMAN LIFE if escape should occur,-;; and that the justification
for the action must be CLEAR and IMMEDIATE:;
3. Justifiably kill an animal
a. In self - defense,
b. To revent substantial harm to the
p * member or another, or
c. When an animal is so badly injured and humanity requires its relief from further suffering; and
4. Qualify or practice with their firearm at an authorized I4d4 lliYUtr7 £Ofi hee Ffireatms
1 ange.
Note: A seriously wounded or injured animal may be destroyed only after all attempts have been made to request
assistance from the agency (Humane Society, animal control, game warden, etc.) responsible for the disposal of
animals. The destruction of vicious animals follpvis -the thslj.cppftlp t wtllt the same rules set forth for self - defense
and the defense and safety of others.
Department members are not authorized to discharge their firearm:
1. As warning shots;
2. If it appears likely that an innocent person may be injured;
3. From a moving vehicle, except as a last resort w:n44:0 etsS$
4000terna # e; or
4. At a moving vehicle, unless it- is- absolutely necessary to do so to protect against an imminent threat to
tl;a life of the departtrleg member or others. As such flapan members:
a. Shall attempt to move out of the path of an oncoming vehicle, possible, rather than discharge their
firearms.
3.
b. Shall not intentionally place themselves in the path of an oncoming vehicle and attempt to disable
the vehicle by discharging their firearms; and
c. Shall not discharge their firearms at a fleeing vehicle or its driver.
DepartmentmMembers are to exercise reasonable care and caution in the safe handling of a firearm. A firearm eon
may be considered "accidentally discharged" for the following reasons only:
1. Mechanical failure;
2. Faulty ammunition;;
3. Unintentional discharge, not resulting from negligence.
REPORTING AND INVESTIGATIVE REQUIREMENTS
Officer's Report on Use of Force
The department investigates all use of force incidents to determine justification fpr fllg ft7rG u5e(1, as well as to
correct any identifiable training deficiencies. Members involved in use of force incidents w}Nsjj notify their
supervisor immediately and complete an Officer's Report on Use of Force. The report wi1101 be eegeiFedi g1 pl
by each member, officer or civilian involved in a use of force incident when:
1. A firearm is discharged outsido a 0:41q C[A13:pt1tek'tlt4tt 11 ktdls7t'J;a@f RAutist ,#t k?®TtC#, pBtCftlett1
firearms range (excluding off -duty situations such as hunting or participating in competitive shooting
2. The use of force results in death or serious bodily injury;
3. A non- deadly weapon or tactic is used on a person; or
4. Other, actions that Of dI dj pgrk>teit member result in death or injury to y peiartp, including
intentional traffic collisions and forcible stopping.
Notification of Patrol Supervisor
The pp`atrol Supervisor is ill I summoned to take control of the incident scene until I relieved by investigative
personnel when:
1. A firearm is discharged eutssde an authorized 144$13 Ro#td ; t}i C, too
1p2tG(p.B G hrtlls:t'Range; .. ..... ...
2. The use of force results 'in death or serious bodily injury; or
3. A citizen or arrestee complains that an injury has been inflicted as the result of a police activity.
Notifications by Communications
The pi atrol Supervisor OM ensures tltat Communications I cvstton has made the appropriate notifications ut
gse ffnf'oe t "sdt f. Communications moo shall immediately notify:
4.
OR
AND
I 8 . The U 8 t member's immediate supervisor and the Criminal Investigation Division for non -
injury or property damage incidents (includes accidental discharge of firearm).
gb. The Criminal Investigation Division (and on -call investigator during non - business hours), medical
assistance, followed promptly by notification of the 802(tgrtt member's immediate supervisor,
and the Evidence Technician where the actions byof a 4 arms u1 member did or could have
resulted in death or serious bodily injury (including intentional discharge of a firearm at a human
being).
32
picimfotogit, C811C iltltdltlstot` (V.A.C.) where the actions by a member did or could have
resulted in serious bbdtly injury/death (including any intentional discharge of a firearm at a human
being).
The in oI ed -is- place
l i
r. st member's urAedlaie stlpt tyrsar ahe I place tti depnrrm t tuentb r d in relief of
duty status as soxrn as pracftcatsle ail r an incidents involving death and serious
bodily injury. The Criminal Investigation Division shalt ensures that the dgpxttmekt member's weapon is impounded
by the Evidence Technician and the Armory Officer, as appropriate; provides a loaner weapon to the <tleparhneot
tftembdr. The supervisor also 3 t notiftesy the officer's division commander in writing regarding the relief of duty
and rearming the 000 member. The identity of department members involved in deadly force incidents isOlp
not Ile released to the public or media for 48 hours #tiorgo rne}d .
The Criminal Investigation Division *1ta11 investigates all deaths and serious injuries resulting from the use of force
(including in- custody incidents) and intentional shooting incidents at human beings, and It submits a written report
of the findings to the Chief of Police. The affected Division Commander or the ranking C.I.D. Investigator present
has ofigoo command of the investigation.
VICTIM'S ASSISTANCE COORDINATOR
'flxe A-V A C. ll responds to use of force incidents resulting in death or serious injury, or where death could have
resulted The V A C shalt arranges for a psychological counseling of involved dapartptadt members by a department-
approved psychologist, and *If forwards a recommendation concerning length of relief of duty and follow -up
counseling to the Chief of Police The V.A.C. else may go make recommendations to the appropriate division
commander of the empleyeels n1elti# r s readiness to return to duty. Nect ll ,:1 ti
dep rprlett nsetnlrer, tit gi? anal trc *tances n r be returned to duty following a finding b tt 0attd #iu'j' that the
death was justifiable or excusable -by-a Grand Jury.
5.